Theresa May is returning from holiday as the UK gets ready for the latest round of Brexit talks

Downing Street got them to write an article together declaring the UK would not be staying in the EU “by the back door”.

However, critics said it showed Mr Hammond had lost a power struggle as he relented over his calls to extend the exit process.

The article came after weeks of public sniping about the stuttering EU divorce talks.

Mr Hammond, who wants a softer Brexit, and International Trade Secretary Mr Fox said they agreed that a transition deal would further Britain’s “national interest and give business greater certainty” — but they insisted it would not derail Britain’s EU exit.

However, Lib Dem leader Sir Vince Cable said it was “now painfully clear who calls the shots in the Cabinet; it isn’t the Chancellor”.

AFP

David Davis said the publication of the position papers would mark 'an important next step' towards Brexit

It came as Brexit boss David Davis prepared to publish papers setting out his negotiating positions ahead of the next round of talks with Brussels.

However, it all did little to stop chatter over Mrs May’s future, with popular backbencher Jacob Rees-Mogg forced to deny a slew of reports he wanted her job.

MOST READ IN POLITICS:

SPEED UP

PM and EU boss vow to 'accelerate' stalled Brexit talks as they meet for dinner